An example counterbalancing element for a fiber optic connector-receiving component includes a flexible body section configured and dimensioned to be at least partially inserted into the interior of the fiber optic connector-receiving component through the opening of the fiber optic connector-receiving component. The counterbalancing element includes means for retaining the flexible body section relative to the fiber optic connector-receiving component such that the flexible body section remains at least partially within the interior of the fiber optic connector-receiving component. The flexible body section is configured to be displaced upon insertion of the fiber optic connector into the opening of the fiber optic connector-receiving component. Displacement of the flexible body section imparts a biasing force on the fiber optic connector.